The Allahabad High Court on Friday reserved its verdict on petitions challenging the Uttar Pradesh government’s decision to "pair" primary and upper primary schools with fewer than 50 students with nearby institutions.

Justice Pankaj Bhatia reserved the order after hearing two separate petitions filed by Krishna Kumari and others, who have sought the quashing of the State's order dated June 16.

Appearing for the petitioners, advocates LP Mishra and Gaurav Mehrotra argued that the decision violates Article 21A of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to free and compulsory education for children aged six to fourteen. They contended that the policy would effectively deprive children of access to schools in their own neighbourhoods. Instead of opting for administrative shortcuts, the government should focus on improving the infrastructure and quality of education to attract more students, they submitted.

The petitioners further argued that the State has taken the "easier route" of downsizing institutions rather than investing in public welfare, thereby placing economic considerations above children's educational rights.

Countering these claims, Additional Advocate General Anuj Kudesia, Chief Standing Counsel Shailendra Singh, and Senior Advocate Sandeep Dixit, representing the Director of Basic Education, defended the policy as lawful and compliant with existing regulations. They maintained that several schools have extremely low enrolment — and in some cases, none at all. The government, they stressed, has not merged the schools but only paired them, and no closures have taken place.

During the hearing, Kudesia requested a media gag order, arguing that reportage on the case was damaging the reputation of government lawyers. However, Justice Bhatia declined the request, stating that while the government is free to legislate on such matters, the court would not pass an order restricting media coverage.